Description (provided by applicant): The goal of the project is to develop a
portable cost-effective device for Mechanical Imaging (MI) of the prostate
capable of evaluating mechanical properties and geometry of the prostate. The
device comprises a transrectal probe, a compact electronic data acquisition
unit and a laptop PC. Information on diagnostically relevant mechanical and
geometrical characteristics of the prostate is obtained with the use of a force
sensor array and a motion-tracking sensor mounted on the probe. In Phase I, a
fully functional prototype of the Prostate Ml System has been built and
validated. Preliminary clinical studies have demonstrated that the sensitivity
of this device in detecting hard nodules within the prostate exceed that of a
digital rectal examination performed by trained urologists. In Phase II, a
preproduction prototype of the Prostate MI system for subsequent
commercialization will be developed. This design will include a compact
accelerometer-based motion tracking system, an optimized force sensor array,
and electronic hardware and software for real time imaging capability. The
final prototype will be validated in the laboratory setting and through the
comprehensive clinical trials at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and
the University of Michigan Medical Center.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS:
Prostate Mechanical Imaging device will be positioned in the market as a cost-effective, portable and easy-to-use tool for prostate cancer diagnosis and screening. There is a tremendous need and commercial potential for this technology in the $50 billion prostate-related market with estimated 40-60 million adult males suffering from one or more prostate conditions. Industry analysts believe that only 10-15% of incidents are reported, stressing the urgent need for the new screening technology.